Favorites of 2017

On the 6th anniversary of Jane’s Lens, I’d like to thank my family, friends and blogging community for your support and encouragement. Creating photographs brings me great pleasure and your response to my posts has been most fulfilling. A special thank you to my husband Bob, who makes it fun while he enthusiastically scouts, patiently waits and lovingly cheers. It was an exciting year for us with the birth of our granddaughter. Move over Golden Gate, there’s a new kid in town!

I hope you enjoy this collection of favorite images. It’s satisfying to look back on the year and on the creative and memorable moments that I cherish.

Wishing you a fabulous 2018 and may you find peace, beauty, happiness and inspiration.

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The Olympic Peninsula is one of my favorite places to visit and photograph. The unfortunate wildfires throughout the Northwest this summer contributed to the unusual effects and light on the landscape. As we approached the lake, it was surprisingly calm and the hazy outline of the mountains reflected on the lake was astounding.

My quest for the perfect lone California Oak is an ongoing challenge. New Year’s Day last year, my husband and I were scouting around and found this bucolic farm in Carneros and there she was, a grande dame on top of a hill. The wild clouds and grazing cows were an added gift.

The town of Tofino on Vancouver Island, BC is a mecca for surfers but for our family, a wonderful place to vacation and take long walks on the pristine beaches. The early morning tidal pools and reflections were enhanced by the mildly hazy skies from the wildfires.

The photography classes I’ve taken at the San Francisco Art Institute have helped me to further explore light, composition and technique. This rock had been sitting on the windowsill in my building’s garage for months and I always admired the light. It made for a great still life study for my class and reinforced the idea that there is beauty in the mundane. (Post note: I came home one day and mourned that someone had removed the rock.)

Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, California is the place people flock to catch the sunset. I am particularly taken with silhouettes and went there often to make studies of the figures and trees against the colorful sky.

Calla Lily Valley is a famous spot near Carmel, CA. I was determined to hike down and my husband, a steadfast assistant was by my side. Our first attempt, with our heavy camera backpacks, brought us to a difficult descent on the left side, which was muddy and inhospitable. As I observed the scene, I saw people happily hiking down the right side where there was an easy trail. Ah, well, perseverance paid off…

Cypress Tree Tunnel is a famous spot in Point Reyes National Seashore and I must have driven by it dozens of times before discovering it last year. The trees were planted in 1930 to lead to the RCA Maritime Station.

I haven’t done much panning over the years, and I don’t mean for gold. Using a slow shutter speed, I focus on the subject and sweep the camera along with the movement. Honestly, it requires quite a bit of luck. It looks as though they are flying down Hyde Street when in reality, the top speed in a cable car is about 10mph. A classic San Francisco moment.

As you may know, the Golden Gate Bridge is a favorite subject. I turn for my morning run at Fort Point and when it’s a day like this, I happily take a rest and wait for the waves to break.

iPhone 6S 1/1800 sec @ f/2.2, ISO 25. Processed in LR Classic CC.

Chains and Golden Gate

I joke that it’s difficult to remember anything about the past year except for the birth of our granddaughter, Imogen. The joy of bringing a new baby into the family is a special time for us all. She is such fun and has quickly gotten used to her photo snapping grandmother.

“To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and to endure the betrayal of false friends. To appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

I know exactly where you were when you took that shot on Chesty, Jane. I recognized Lone Cones distinctive shape immediately!Your one of the few photographers I’ve seen that sees before they shoot.
Light and form is critical to draw the eye in.
Very good work Jane.Next time your both in the neighbourhood give me a shout and I’ll show you about.

Hi Wayne, Talk about a late response… I was reviewing my Tofino images and came across your lovely missed comment. Thanks very much for your encouragement and the connection to this beautiful part of the world! 🙂

my computer does that as well. I empty the spam folder but before I do I quickly check it.
I’ve found peoples comments in there sometimes. Haven’t a clue why? All the other times the same people have commented they’ve come through?
Thank you for commenting Jane and I admire your photographic style btw.

Hi Jane, first of all my sincere double congratulations for your 6th anniversary of Jane’s Lens and the birth of your granddaughter Imogen, how cute she is 🙂 Is she your first grandchild?
I have to say that your favorites are also my favorites 🙂 You also have a diversity of pictures, which makes it alternating and fascinating. Keep doing your great photography and we will fully enjoy it …! 🙂 Enjoy your day…
Warm regards, Heidi

Hi Heidi, Thank you so much on all counts. Your comments always make my day and are much appreciated. Yes, Imogen is our first and it’s been such fun. Pleased you enjoyed my picks for the year. Hope all is well with you. 😀J

Thanks so much, Cheryl! Happy you enjoyed my look back on the year including my little icing on the cake. Six years of blogging didn’t fly by as quickly as the first year of my granddaughter’s life! 🙂 Wishing you wonderful and happy adventures this year. xox

Dear Jane, six years! Wow and congratulations! I know that I “discovered” you and your incredible photographic talent almost four years ago. How time flies, doesn’t it?
What a breathtaking, and inspiring tribute to 2017. You have so many examples of capturing life’s often fleeting beauty in a snap that it’s impossible for me to pick favourites. I was enthralled throughout.
Congratulations too on the arrival of adorable little Imogen, she’s adorable and picture perfect. Best wishes also to you and your family in 2018. 🙂

Hi Amanda, And you with Surprising Lives… it sure does fly. Thank you for your thoughtful comments, for sharing my work and for your encouragement. I’m so glad you enjoyed my look back on the year…yes, Imogen was the icing on the cake! Wishing you a fantastic and inspiring 2018! 🙂

We moved out of California in 2005; how the world has changed; and from time to time I find myself homesick. I have walked with my family in the places you capture so well. Thank you for a walk in California.

It will be so fun to watch adorable Imogen grow up through your lens — Action shots — A new avenue to explore when she turns 2. Ha.
Beautiful set of images, Happiest of New Year’s to you Jane ! Cheers💜

congrats on the granddaughter — cool name and love that faux fur vest – right on.
and the two top pics for me here (not that I always have to state my favs (but sometimes that is how my mind thinks)
bery favorite is: Chains and Golden Gate
because that is a place I connect with you and your blog (good ol’ SF) and also the photo has dimension, color, depth, and so much more to absorb.
and the sunset seekers is just such a personal fav because of the color, silhouettes and sun placement – but then the variety of people was just excellent – the couple to the right and the lady’s pizzaz to the right of the sun – the guys to the left and then the far left we have the onlooker. So original and artsy.
and a little late – but happy new year, J

Hi Yvette, I just love your comments. Thank you so much. It is a pleasure to know that you are studying the images. Your descriptions make me smile! I thought Imogen’s vest was pretty cool, too…I must give credit to my hip daughter-in-law! 🙂 Such fun.

Thank you so much, dear April! You have supported my work enthusiastically over these 6 years and I appreciate it and love you for it. Happy you enjoyed my review – the Emerson quote is my all time favorite- I simply love the message. Miss you and wish you a wonderful 2018! xo

Ah, Jane, such a lovely post, full of your generosity of spirit. I remember many of these images. It must have been a bit of work, putting this post together, but I bet you enjoyed it. Special favorites for me are the oak, succulent and Calla lilies (do you detect a theme?) I love your panned cable car shot, so well done! A great photo of Imogen, too, congratulations, and what fun! I think my absolute favorite here is the window in the garage – perfection! The light, the colors, the composition – it is seen with love. Here’s to more creativity in 2018, and fewer fires!

Hi Lynn, Your response to my review means so much– thank you! So cool, too, that you like the Window in addition to the nature themes. As I mentioned, hard to remember much after Imogen arrived. 🙂 Warm wishes to you and yours for a wonderful year ahead and I sure am looking forward to your photos in 2018.

Congratulations, Jane, they are all quite beautiful photographs and you had a wonderful 2017, it is very kind to share it with us your readers ^_^ The San Francisco Art Institute is very famous even here in Peru, although I think the heart you put is from you. Greetings n_n

What an incredible post Jane! Every photo is unique and a treasure in its own right. Your grand daughter is magnificent! So lucky you are close by her! Happy New Year and I look forward to your magnificent photos in 2018!

Nicole, That’s so nice to read. You’re support is much appreciated and I’m really glad to know you on WP. Thanks very much! Can’t wait to see where life takes you in 2018- much happiness and fun adventures to you and your family!

Jane, I feel that everything is already said in all the comments I’m reading here. So what else can I add? As you are thanking us, I believe we need to thank you for sharing your amazing “lens eye” throughout the years. Imogen, of course I thought immediately of the famous and my most adored photographer Imogen Cunningham, congratulations for becoming a grandmother, I’m sure we will see more fabulous images of her. Have a splendid year, may your phenomenal photography spirit continue in great inspirations to share.

Thank you, Cornelia, for your warm support. I really appreciate it. I was thrilled when I heard what name the kids picked and although their choice had nothing to do with our favorite photographer, it was meaningful to me. Looking forward to where your lens finds you and I wish you a marvelous 2018!

The San Francisco bits are so very dear to my heart, bringing back sweet memories of days gone by! Thank you for that blessing. As for your blessing… Imogen is quite a cutie. I bet she’ll be seen in lots of photos by Grandma. Capture those memories while you can.

Hi Gunta, I’m so glad to bring back good memories for you and that you enjoyed my review. A few faves from your neck of the woods, too. As you can imagine, I’m having the time of my life photographing our little one. You are right, it goes by too fast. Wishing you a creative year filled with fun adventures!

Hi Steve, Thanks very much. It’s an interesting and fun exercise to go through the year and whittle it down with various criteria. I’m so glad you enjoyed these- that means a lot. Wishing you a creative and fulfilling new year!

Hi Susy, Thanks so much, Cuz- great to hear from you! I’m so glad you enjoyed them and had a moment to look “large”. I am sure you can imagine what fun we are having with Imogen. Wishing you all a fabulous 2018! xox

I am so glad I didn’t miss this amazing post Jane! Your photography takes my breath away, the B&W is incredible as is the amazing shot of the Golden Gate Bridge – but best of all congratulations on the birth of your granddaughter, she is precious. Best wishes for an amazing 2018!

I couldn’t decide which photo I liked best, all have appeal and drive my own memories of SF and CA coast and beyond–but then I came to Imogen. Such a doll!! no wonder the rest of the year– and all the other photos –take a backseat. Here’s to many more beautiful, intriguing, mesmerizing, awe-inspiring, thought-provoking photos–and many more of Imogen. Hats off to the photographer and her willing helper. Happy 2018!

Hi Camille, It makes me happy that the photos evoke fond memories– that’s great. You’re a wonderful support and friend — thank you so much. Also, for listening intently to Imogen stories! 🙂 Wishing you a fabulous year full of adventures and happiness!

Congratulations on the new grandchild and happy New Year Jane! Your photography has been such an inspiration to me and I look forward to your creative efforts in 2018. The shot at the movie theater and your special rock on the window are my favorites in this gallery for their beautiful composition and light.

Hi Atreyee, Thanks so much! I’m very pleased you enjoyed my review especially those images which are particularly special to me creatively. I look forward to seeing where your travels take you in 2018. Wishing you inspiring adventures and much happiness!

Jane, your photos are always a pleasure to view, and these are certainly wonderful. My favorite is the Oak tree, and the RWE quote. Love them both! 🙂 Congratulations on the granddaughter! I am sure this photo – which is perhaps more wonderful than all the others – is only one of thousands made and yet to be made!

Hi Larry, It’s so nice to hear from you and I’m pleased you enjoyed my review…I think I’ll always be looking for those oaks! Thanks. You can imagine how many photos I have of our new little girl….it’s amazing I managed to photograph anything else. Thanks very much for your encouraging words. Wishing you a fabulous 2018 and I am looking forward to what you find with your lens!

Absolutely wonderful collection of rich photographs and great commentary Jane! I would have to choose the California Oak as my favourite! Is Imogen your first grandchild? Her name reminds me of the photographer Imogen Cunningham (1883-1976) Also, I noticed that you use the Fuji Xt2 for some of your shots. I have read some very positive reviews and now need to save up for one. I currently have a Lumix G85 mirrorless with 28-280 equiv.lens that I’m very pleased with. It has 16mp which is fine for prints maybe up to 16×24 – however, I often crop the original image which limits the size of the print further. So I’m thirsting for 24mp which the Xt2 has. I also prefer mirrorless b/c of the nice bright EVF rather than viewing image through a DSLR image.

Thanks so much, Michael, for your continuing support– I really appreciate it! Imogen is our first and although she wasn’t named for the the famous photographer (whom I admire greatly) I do love her name. I am loving the Fuji and would highly recommend it for its incredible image quality, ease of use and light weight. I’ve had it for almost a year and I’m still learning all the tricks…amazing capabilities. (Still have my Nikon D800, but it stays in the bag more and more) The files aren’t as big as the Nikon but large enough to crop effectively if needed. The EVF is great. Please let me know if you have any questions– until then, wishing you a fabulous new year!

Thanks for sharing your experience with XT2 Jane! We also have a recently born granddaughter – Lennon – born Sept.25 … in addition to our other grandsons Jacob, age 2 and James age 3 … We have 5 adult children – 4 married and the last one soon to be married. I hope we have continue to have enough health and energy to keep track of everyone!

Hi Noortje, Thnk you! Happy you enjoyed my review ending with the most photographed person in our family this year. 🙂 It’s great to be connected on WP and I wish you a creative and beautiful year ahead. Can’t wait to see what you find with your lens!

What a great quote from your brilliant wife, Allan. It’s been a great year– thank you for following along and for your encouragement and thoughts. Wishing you a creative and inspiring new year. I know your lens will find many interesting subjects! I need to get to my window…it’s pouring! 🙂

There is some great stuff here! Thank you for adding me to the distribution list! I think my favourite is “Oak in Winter, Carneros” but each one has something special within it… really well observed, and then executed. Love your stuff!
Andy xxx

Hello Andy! Thank you, my friend across the pond. Pleased you enjoyed my year in review — Oak in Winter was a great day and an exciting find. I appreciate your great response! Will email you to touch base about family stuff. Love to all! xo

Hi Lisa, Happy you enjoyed these– favorites are so personal and subjective. Chinatown was one of those moments that brought me joy. (along with our sweet Imogen!) Thank you so much for all your support– wishing you a much happiness in the upcoming year.

Hi Joe, It’s a fun challenge to review and assess. Pleased you enjoyed them, thank you so much. A highlight of the year was joining Monochromia– thank you, also, for that and for your leadership there! Wishing you a terrific year ahead filled with more of your fabulous images.

Thanks, Marie! I held back from posting a year of Imogen. (haha!) It is good to look back on a fun and busy year and seriously review work. I’m pleased Rock and Window speaks to you– I really appreciate that. Wishing you a wonderful 2018 filled with much happiness.

Fabulous photos, Jane,and always a treat to read your quotes and narratives. So interesting to see how you group your photos and experiences together as well. You have a great eye for beauty. Keep posting!

A beautiful look back over the past year with your stunning photos is such a treat. Your first choice has stuck in my memory ever since I first saw it, truly a remarkable photo. The high point for you however, has to be your lovely Imogen!

HI Eliza, Thank you for all your support and encouragement. I really appreciate it. Fun that you remembered that image from the Olympic Peninsula and I’m happy to introduce you to Imogen! 🙂 Warm wishes for a creative and happy 2018!

So much beauty you have shared with us in your photographic trip down your 2017 memory lane Jane. I am in awe of your talent to spot the moment and then recreate it into a memorable image. That Calla Lily valley I would love to have hanging on my wall and such a beautiful Granddaughter to end the set with.

Hi Pauline- Thank you, thank you! Pleased you liked my review– I love to look back and think about each moment. And, glad you liked my icing on the cake with little Imogen. You know the magic of grandchildren. Wishing you and Jack a happy and healthy 2018!

I am not going to pick one as they are all such magnificent examples of your work. I am just happy that you share them with us. And congratulations on becoming a grandmother (you surely can’t be old enough?) and having such a bonny baby. xx

Thanks very much, Tina. It has been a creative and fulfilling year is so many ways. I guess I’ve done my job as a photographer when you can insert yourself into the scene. Hope you have a wonderful 2018!

Hi Peter, Thank you very much. Pleased you enjoyed this review and I really appreciate that you follow along. Wishing you a creative and fulfilling 2018 and I’m sure you will find many treasures with your lens.

How did you narrow down your images? You shot so many wonderful ones, including these. It has been a pleasure reviewing your work this past year. Kudos to you and your hubby. I enjoy your quotes and comments, as well. Congrats on becoming a grandma…being a GP is the best thing ever!

Hi Michael, Thank you so much! It’s been a great year, as you can imagine. I do enjoy reviewing, organizing further and assessing, but when the new year comes, decisions are made….sadly, it does feel a bit like choosing a favorite child. Wishing you a fabulous and creative 2018!

Jack, You’ve been a wonderful collaborator on all things photography over the years and you’ve been a great role model, too! So glad you enjoyed my review and I wish you a creative and wonderful 2018. Hopefully, I’ll see you on the island again soon.